David Beckham has backed Jonathan Woodgate to overcome his "obstacles" after the Leeds defender was told he would not play for England until after the World Cup.

Woodgate was not selected in the latest England squad for tomorrow night's Elland Road friendly against Italy as it was considered too soon to play him in the wake of the Middlesbrough-born centre-back's recent conviction for affray.

Although Woodgate has since completed a punishment of 100 hours' community service, the FA were concerned about the backlash they would face if the 22-year-old was included in Sven-Göran Eriksson's squad and decided to extend Woodgate's international exile beyond June's finals in Japan and Korea.

But the England skipper last night sent a message of hope to the Leeds defender, describing him as a "talented footballer" who would bounce back.

He said: "Everyone has to overcome obstacles in their life and I'm sure he will. Jonathan is a talented footballer, I'm sure everyone knows that."

"What's gone on with Jonathan, it's none of our business. Mr Eriksson has made his point and I wouldn't want to go into that.

"It's unlucky for him because it's at Leeds but that's nothing to do with me."